Instrument cluster

AGGIE HOUK

MEMBER
2003 LINCOLN TOWN CAR
3.5L
V6
4WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

After it went out, only showing ABS, and brake and a couple other lights. I took it to the dealership. They said the cluster had a short, can't be fixed, and cost would be $1,300.00. By accident, a friend discover what appears to be the ground from the cluster severed. (Laying on leaves that were trapped and got very hot. Would you believe?) Question is, would this affect the instrument not working? It is a flat, and looks like fine braiding.

1 Reply

MOTOR MASTER

MECHANIC
279 POSTS

Hello my name is Dave.

It sounds like you are referring to the ground strap that grounds the engine to the body which is a critical connection not only for your engine related gauges (oil pressure, coolant temperature and charge) but could cause issues with a number of systems not the least of which would be the charging system. It would be a good idea to have that strap replaced and see what the results are especially considering it is an obvious issue and should be repaired. If you can have that issue addressed and see if that cures your problem and let us know if the problem persists and we'll be happy to help you further. Thank you for using 2CarPros and feel free to come back with any future questions.